Endoscopic release of the ulnar nerve at the elbow using the Agee device: a cadaveric study.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of the Agee endoscopic system (3M, Orthopedic Products, St. Paul, MN) for ulnar nerve decompression at the elbow.

TYPE OF STUDY: A cadaveric study.

METHODS

The ulnar nerve was identified through a 3-cm longitudinal incision between the medial epicondyle and olecranon. A release of the ulnar nerve was performed with the Agee device under endoscopic magnification. A complete open assessment of the ulnar nerve, its branching, and structures divided was performed under loupe magnification.

RESULTS

In all 6 cadaveric specimens, the arcade of Struthers, the cubital tunnel retinaculum, and the flexor carpi ulnaris aponeurosis were completely divided. In all specimens, the ulnar nerve and all motor and capsular branches were preserved.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has demonstrated that the Agee endoscopic ulnar nerve decompression at the elbow is both safe and effective in a cadaveric model.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This cadaveric study shows that a surgical decompression of the ulnar nerve can be safely and effectively performed with a single endoscopic portal using the Agee device.